Definition: screw cap

It is interesting to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of this type of closure:

Disadvantages:

• It is not in keeping with wine tradition – many people would not understand it.
• It removes a ritual and a traditional sound that is appreciated.
• Less aesthetic, given the long tradition of corks.
• From an economic point of view, this type of closure costs roughly half the price of a top-quality cork, to which must be added the plastic capsule that covers the neck of the bottle (15 pence compared to 35 pence).

The advantages of the screw cap, with all due respect to corkscrew enthusiasts, can be summarised as follows:

• This type of closure does not impart any off-flavours to the wine, in particular the taste of cork. Of the last seven bottles opened, three had a cork taste. These bottles are only good for the sink; they cannot be used for sauces or vinegar.

A highly appreciated system, particularly for sealing half-bottles, which are more prone to contamination and off-flavours.

• Closure ensures a perfect seal. No leaking bottles, except for damaged screw caps.
• Closure that preserves the freshness and finesse of the wine and, above all, the slight effervescence characteristic of our Chasselas wines.
• Closure system that saves a significant amount of cork, which is becoming scarce and can be reserved for wines with long ageing potential.
• Type of closure that is easy to open by hand, without the aid of accessories.

• A closure that facilitates the serving of wine at banquets where speed is an important factor. Wines sealed in this way do not need to be tasted.

This type of closure is particularly well suited to some of our Swiss wines that are not intended for very long ageing. Initially somewhat hampered in its development by Swiss consumers who are fond of tradition, the screw cap is gaining recognition due to the many advantages mentioned above.